Finding richness in disability
Dr Annalisa Contos
Principal | Technical Facilitator | Engineer | Speaker | Advocate
I have two beautiful boys with autism who bring joy to my heart. I love their neurodiversity, their different ways of seeing the world, their tenacity and problem solving. I believe they have so much to offer the world.
Being a parent of a disabled child is a different parenting journey. While other parents celebrate sports team wins, we celebrate a trip to the shops without a meltdown or winning a bureaucratic battle.
On this international day of persons with disabilities, I wanted to reflect on what I had learnt from my children’s journey and how I bring this to my work practice. Here are just a few of the things they have taught me:
I could rail about the time I have spent this week fighting government departments in a battle to keep my family connected yet safe. I know I'm not the only one. Our economy would be much better placed if that time was spent productively.
Our society fails people with a disability and those who care for them. We are poorer for it.
Coat&Co Engineering
3 年Great post Annalisa. I too share your sentiments and enjoy learning ways to help our young lad on his journey. I also thank you for your advice and good humour when we catch up (less frequent these days) All the best for the Xmas and NY; hopefully you enjoy a well earnt break …………Ho Ho Ho ????????????
Manager, Regulatory Strategy, WaterNSW
3 年Hearing you loud and clear! Sometimes I rejuvenate my parenting energy by looking up things like "Inspiring People on the Autism Spectrum" and there's some pretty amazing names on the list, including Darwin, Einstein, Michelangelo, Mozart, Newton to name a few. Imagine what the world would be like without them!
Business Line Manager MEMS Sensors at X-FAB
3 年Hi Annalisa, Thanks for sharing your story so openly. I can very much relate to this and increasing awareness is the very first step in creating a more inclusive society. Staying calm in all situations is the key but also the most difficult one especially if the walls don't seem to be a boundary amore ;-).
Quantum Human Design Specialist | Branding Strategist | Helping Purpose-Driven Women Align Their Brand & Purpose
3 年Well you could say our lives will never be boring and I can't wait to see what our kids develop/create as adults in this ever changing world. ?
Improving health outcomes for Australians | Digital Healthcare | Strategic Leadership.
3 年Thankyou for sharing Annalisa - lovely boys and wonderful sentiments